The week of March 2, 1985, saw George Michael’s (or Wham!’s) ‘Careless Whisper‘ holding on to the #1 spot. Right behind it was REO Speedwagon’s ‘Can’t Fight This Feeling,’ a week away from its own three-week stint in the top spot.
This was the band’s second #1 (following another power ballad, 1980’s ‘Keep On Lovin’ You’) and their last to reach even the top ten.
Lead singer Kevin Cronin wrote this song to capture his feelings for a friend of his who was dating another of his friends. Eventually he confessed and two ended up in a relationship. I imagine having a chart-topping love song written about you is a rather persuasive come-on.
Oh, I can’t fight this feeling any longer
And yet, I’m still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show
I tell myself that I can’t hold out forever
I said there is no reason for my fear
‘Cause I feel so secure when we’re together
You give my life direction, you make everything so clear
[Pre-Chorus]
And even as I wander, I’m keeping you in sight
You’re a candle in the window on a cold, dark winter’s night
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might
[Chorus]
And I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can’t fight this feeling anymore
[Verse 2]
My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I’ve been running ’round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I’m following you, girl
‘Cause you take me to the places that, alone, I’d never find
[Pre-Chorus]
And even as I wander, I’m keeping you in sight
You’re a candle in the window on a cold, dark winter’s night
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might
[Chorus]
And I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can’t fight this feeling anymore
Meet Me In Montauk 
I had previously listed this as one of the cheesier 80s songs by rock bands who had had far better and more muscular songs like, for example “Roll with the Changes.”